MEXICO (2015 FIBA Americas Championship) - With just days to go before the action gets underway at the FIBA Americas Championship, Mexico's Francisco Cruz has stated he expects nothing less than an extremely competitive tournament.

The 1.88m guard believes the 10-team event taking place in Mexico City from 31 August-12 September is completely wide open and anyone's for the taking.

However, he warns that the Aztecs - the defending Americas champions - won't lack in motivation and desire to do what's needed in order to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

To achieve the goal of being in the Final, we have to be focused and not lose concentration throughout the tournament. - Cruz

"It will be a hard fought and even tournament, where anyone can win. I do not see a clear favorite," said the 25-year-old.

Cruz has high hopes for the host country and that's because he sees the potential of the team.

"The leaders of our team already have experience in this tournament and won it [in 2013]," the native of Nogales explained.

"They demonstrated that the powerhouse teams of America can be defeated. Those who joined them have to add effort to achieve the objective which is to get a ticket to the Olympics.

"I am confident that we can achieve that."

Cruz also touched on what people can expect to see from this Mexico team, saying that it is sticking "with the same style imposed by [head coach Sergio Valdeolmillos], with aggressive defense and an organised and intense game. Still we are looking to improve on offense and grab the final rhythm for the competition. What leaves us relaxed is that our defense is good and we know that will help us win."

The 1.88m guard acknowledged the Mexicans will feel the absence of important players that were part of the winning team in Caracas two years ago.

"Both Lorenzo Mata, who assured us on defense and in rebounding, and Roman Martinez, who contributed much on offense, are proven worthy players. Others will have to take those roles so that the team does not miss them," he said.

The FIBA Americas Championship is generating a great interest and high expectations in Mexico's public sphere. Rumours have circulated that only very few tickets remain for games of the home team.

Cruz certainly hopes the team can make the most of the home court advantage.

"[I hope] our audience will be felt. We all hope to play in a full stadium," he said.

"We know that we have the advantage of the support of our people. And we are determined to seize it."

Go to fiba.com/Americas2015 for full coverage of the 2015 FIBA Americas Championship. 

FIBA